Eco-Schools programme

Eco-Schools – WESSA’s flagship programme in South Africa for over 21 years – is developed by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) to promote environmental learning globally.

We invite all schools to join our Eco-Schools programme to develop and support environmental learning in the classroom. Eco-Schools combines learning with hands-on experiences for an inclusive, participatory approach, as well as supporting Education for Sustainable Development in the national curriculum. With over 50% of the content in some CAPS subjects being environmental in nature, Eco-Schools makes a positive contribution towards improving education in South Africa.

Children learn about environmental issues, such as climate change and pollution and sustainable use of precious resources like water, land and energy. We instil a sense of responsibility in young people to lead more sustainable and environmentally responsible lives. Additionally, we encourage them to share their learning with family, friends and others in their communities.

By becoming conservation champions, learners have the power to make a difference in the way people treat the earth and its natural resources.

Internationally recognised

Part of an international programme of the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Eco-Schools is active in 70 countries and 56 000 schools around the world and has been implemented in South Africa by WESSA since 2003.

Since 2003, the programme has engaged over 4,500 schools across all nine provinces, impacting 1,200,350 learners and 45,500 teachers annually. Eco-Schools accredits schools committed to continuous environmental improvement.

Eco-Schools Awards

Schools that make a commitment to continuously improve their environmental performance are eligible to  receive an award recognising their achievements. Schools can register any time and submit evidence portfolios for awards within 8 to 12 months, culminating in Provincial Awards Ceremonies held annually in March.

We encourage them to develop environmental action plans and learning programmes and work slowly and systematically through the process of transformation to better environmental management and learning.

As they ascend the levels in the award programme, projects and themes gradually increase. Schools are also given the opportunity to support other schools with environmental projects.